Apple is reportedly preparing to launch a budget MacBook in early 2026 that will run on an iPhone-class chip rather than the company's traditional M-series processors. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, this budget MacBook will serve as Apple's centerpiece Mac launch for the first half of 2026, positioning it to compete directly with Chromebooks and entry-level Windows notebooks.

Gurman's latest newsletter doesn't provide many new details beyond previous rumors, but confirms the timeline remains intact for a spring 2026 release. The device is expected to feature a 13-inch display and use an A18 Pro chip, which could potentially deliver better performance than Apple's M1 processor despite the lower price point. This strategic move would give Apple an entry-level option for consumers hesitant about the company's premium pricing.

The rumored price range of $699 to $750 would make this the most affordable MacBook ever, though achieving this price point may require significant compromises. Industry analysts suggest Apple might reduce USB-C ports, limit memory to 8GB, and downgrade the display to hit these cost targets. Supply chain sources indicate Apple has ordered between five million and eight million units for 2026 production, signaling the company's confidence in this product's market potential.

Quick Fact: Apple's budget MacBook is expected to ship between five million and eight million units in 2026.